Novel Self-Expandable Laser-Cut Device for Effective Thrombus Retrieval: Overcoming Limitations in Thrombectomy for Deep Vein Thrombosis, Peripheral Artery Disease and Pulmonary Embolism

Abstract

Listen

Translate article

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and peripheral artery disease, often leading to fatal outcomes. The first line of treatment for DVT and PAD is anticoagulation: preventing the thrombus, occlusion of blood vessels, and propagation of PE especially in the case of DVT where limb or life-threatening complications are at risk. Clots retrieved from vessels include mechanical and manual interventions such as catheter-directed thrombolysis and thrombectomy. Yet the risks involved with thrombotic and embolic vascular occlusions are high because they cause occlusion of blood flow in crucial vessels; this may lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Most of the existing thrombectomy devices do not remove the organized thrombus completely while prevention of clot fragmentation is also lacking. The study presents a new, self-expanding laser-cut clot retrieval device specifically designed to remove both hard and soft thrombi with no trauma at all to the vessel wall. This is one of the promising advancements in thrombectomy that overcomes the disadvantages of other existing technologies and offers a stronger approach for the removal of occlusions in the vascular system associated with DVT, PAD, and PE. The simulation test in vitro and a trackability test have been conducted with the developed device together with its delivery system for validation. These tests were envisaged to demonstrate how the device can operate, for example, navigate through the vasculature, and retrieve thrombi safely and accurately.